The Kansas City Star reports Kansas City Royals IF Chris Clapinski (elbow) will miss the entire 2005 season after a second opinion confirmed a torn flexor-pronator group in his right elbow. Clapinski's surgery date has not been set, but the procedure typically requires nine to 12 months of rehabilitation.

Dick Kaegel, of Royals.MLB.com, reports Kansas City Royals IF Chris Clapinski will serve as the team's utility man in 2005. The 33-year-old Clapinski hit .312 with 11 home runs, 63 RBI and 18 stolen bases for Triple-A Buffalo last season while a member of the Cleveland Indians' organization.